Chelsea: It is 'business as usual'

Chelsea insisted today was just another normal day at Stamford Bridge after Rafael Benitez’s rant at the Blues support and his title of interim manager.

Benitez launched an impassioned monologue following the holders’ 2-0 FA Cup win at Middlesbrough last night, which set up a quarter-final tie with Manchester United.

His criticism sparked suggestions his tenure in caretaker charge could come to an end as soon as today, rather than as scheduled at the end of season.

A Chelsea spokesperson said: “It’s business as usual.”

Press Association Sport understands Benitez was set to take training at the club’s Cobham base this morning and, at this stage, expected to be in charge for Saturday’s Barclays Premier League clash with West Brom.